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Tuesday, 9 April 2013

The Differences Between Gas, Electric And Solar Golf Carts

There are three different types of golf carts: gas, electric, and solar. Though electric golf carts are the most common, gas and solar golf carts also serve a good purpose on certain types of golf courses. When selecting golf carts, consider how and where the golf carts will be used and make the proper decision. Here are the benefits of gas, electric and solar golf carts:

Electric Golf Carts

Pros: Electric golf carts are preferred by many golf courses because electric motors can be easily charged. After it is charged, electric golf carts can be used for eight to 10 hours. Two rounds of golf can be completed in this time. These types of carts require little maintenance and little fuel.

Cons: As electronic batteries get older, they are less likely to hold a charge. The charge is depleted faster when the cart is carrying a load that exceeds its capacity. The lifespan of the battery is diminished, and the batteries are expensive to replace.

Gas Golf Carts

Pros: If you need power and torque, gas-powered golf carts are designed to deliver. Carrying large loads is easier with gas golf carts than with electric or solar powered golf courses. Gas-powered carts will handle loads that weigh more than 500 pounds. These carts are also more capable of traversing abrasive terrain. In mountainous terrain, a gas-powered golf cart is recommended.

Cons: The cost of fueling a golf cart is the primary downside. The noise created during operation is the other downside. The noise can be a distraction during the golf game.

Solar Golf Carts

Pros: Solar golf carts are affordable and eco-friendly. Silicon panels used to collect energy from the sun are durable, lightweight and flexible. Solar golf cart systems will extend current battery life in a vehicle. If the proper system is chosen, it can convert energy faster than the standard cell. Some panels will even work in shady conditions.

There are some reports that these panels can convert enough energy to charge a battery for weeks and in some cases, a month. Every year, these carts can save up to 452 pounds annually of carbon dioxide. A solar roof panel will extend battery life by two years longer than the four years.

Cons: Solar-powered batteries are prone to sulfur build-up that can cause battery failure.

A Comparison of Golf Carts

Since the mid 1800s, golf has been a sport that many people enjoy. As the golf ball has evolved, the golf cart has not been far behind. When comparing golf carts, it is important to know how the golf carts will be used. Ideally, everyone would like solar-powered golf course because the carts are affordable and eco-friendly.

Realistically, electric golf carts and gas-powered golf carts are most likely to be found on golf courses. Electric golf carts are most commonly used because of the disadvantages of gas-powered golf courses. When making your choice, evaluate all possible scenarios and make the best possible selection based on the information provided.

Rod Tangiers is a writer who also happens to be an avid golfer. He writes for Radical Golf Carts, a golf cart parts company in Michigan.